What's on Your Mind?

Church of the Living God

Bible Study Lesson

Presenter: Overseer Ennis F. Tait

 

Date:   Wednesday, April 29, 2015

Series: Transformation – 50 Days of Expectation

Scripture Reference:  The Gospel of Matthew

Focus Verse:  Matthew 6:25-34

Today’s Discussion:    “What’s on Your Mind?”

There are a number of approaches to extract one’s view on a particular subject matter.  All of which encourage all those involved to carefully process what’s being presented.  As we consider the topics of discussion that are atop the various media sources, we can see the mass confusion arising from the mixed thoughts plaguing the world.

For those within academic realm the process is known as “logical reasoning”.  However, if I were looking at a situation or discussing an issue of concern from a biblical perspective, I would strongly consider “what would Jesus do or say” about the matter.  

The lesson aim is to evaluate and assess the mindset of believers.  Believers are encouraged in the Word to be careful how we present ourselves to God and each other. In addition, we should be fully aware and able to discern the daily struggle between flesh and spirit which affects how we live our lives. (Reference: Romans 12:1-2)

The Apostle Matthew records Jesus’ appeal to HIS followers to consider three major factors by which we as believers should live: giving, prayer (forgiving), fasting. (Reference: Matthew 6:1-18) In addition the Lord instructs us to focus our minds on the righteousness of God and not the things of the world. (Reference: Matthew 6:19-21)

It is quite obvious that many of us put more energy into what we wear; what we eat; where we live; or how much money we have or need to make it.  All of these are essential to the natural man.  The Apostle Paul suggests to the church to consider adopting the Christ way of thinking. (Reference: Phil. 2:5-8)  We can conclude that the opposite of high-mindedness is humility.  Humility is a spiritual characteristic that should guide our thinking.  (Reference: I Peter 5:5-6)  However, Jesus wants each of us to redirect our attention away from the flesh and consider a new way of thinking.

(Read verses 31-38)

31 What I'm trying to do here is to get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God's giving. 32 People who don't know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. 33 Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don't worry about missing out. You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met. 34 "Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don't get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.” (MSG)

Point to Ponder:  How much time do you spend meditating on the word of God?